“It doesn’t matter what name.  Tell her I have called in reference to Mr. Potter’s absence.”

“Come in!” the butler exclaimed quickly.

Larry had gained his first skirmish, in a manner perfectly legitimate, regarded from a newspaper standpoint.  He had called in reference to Mr. Potter’s disappearance—­not to give information (as the butler may have supposed), but to get it.

“This way,” said the man.  “Mrs. Potter is in the library.”

Larry entered through the velvet portieres the butler held aside for him.  He saw, reclining on a couch, a handsome woman, whose face showed traces of tears.  Beside her stood the most beautiful girl Larry had ever seen.  She had brown eyes, brown hair, and a face that, though it was sad, made Larry think of some wonderful painting.

“Some one with news of Mr. Potter,” the butler announced.

“Oh!  Have you come to tell me of my husband?” the lady exclaimed, sitting up suddenly.

Larry’s mind was working quickly.  If he took the right means he was liable to get the information he wanted.  On the other hand he was in a fair way to be shown the door indignantly, for he realized that he had entered under false pretenses, however honorable his motives might have been.

“I beg your pardon for intruding,” he said, speaking quickly.  “I have come to ask news of Mr. Potter, not to bring it.  One moment,” as he saw Mrs. Potter’s face assume a look of anger.  “His disappearance has been reported to the police.  They tried to keep it quiet, but it was impossible in the case of a man of Mr. Potter’s standing.  Our paper—­the Leader—­knows of it.  In a short time it will be known to every paper in New York.  I think it would be wise for you to meet the situation, and give me whatever information you can.  We will only be too glad to help you locate your husband, and I believe there is no better way than by newspaper publicity, even the police will tell you that.  If you could give me a description of the missing man, when he was last seen, what sort of clothing he wore, and a picture of him we will publish it in the paper.  Thousands of persons will see the account and will be on the lookout for him.  Believe me, it is the best way!”

Larry paused for breath.  He had rattled all that off without giving Mrs. Potter a chance to stop him, for he wanted to present his case in the most advantageous light.

“Mamma, I believe he is right!” exclaimed Grace Potter.  “I never thought of it that way before.  I thought the newspaper people were horrid when any one had trouble.”

“We are human,” said Larry with a little laugh, and Grace smiled, though her eyes had traces of tears.

“I could not think of discussing your father’s affairs with a reporter,” said Mrs. Potter stiffly.

“I don’t want to pry into his affairs,” returned Larry.  “I only want to help you find him.”

“But this publicity is so disgraceful!”